Luka Doncic Flies Off To Europe For Treatment As NBA Playoffs Near - Report

Last Updated:April 06, 2026, 18:21 IST

Lakers’ playoff hopes take a hit as Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves go down injured, leaving LeBron to carry the load while the team races against time for their return.

All it took was one brutal week to derail the Los Angeles Lakers.

After building serious momentum, the Lakers now find themselves scrambling after losing both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to significant injuries.

Doncic has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, while Reaves is dealing with a Grade 2 oblique injury — both leaving their playoff availability hanging in the balance.

LeBron Left Carrying the Load

The immediate fallout? LeBron James is once again being asked to do it all.

At 41, the burden of creating offense now rests squarely on his shoulders, a tall ask with the playoffs just weeks away. That reality was evident in the loss to Dallas, where LeBron dropped 30 points, 15 assists, and nine rebounds but still couldn’t drag the team over the line.

A Glimmer of Hope

There is, however, a flicker of optimism.

Doncic has reportedly flown to Europe for specialized treatment, a move confirmed by his agent Bill Duffy to ESPN, after consultations with team and personal doctors.

While Grade 2 hamstring injuries typically sideline players for around a month, Doncic is targeting a playoff return.

“Both those guys are going to try to come back," head coach JJ Redick said. “And it’s our job to extend the season so that they can come back."

More Than Just Rehab

According to insider Jovan Buha, the Europe trip isn’t just about recovery speed.

“I think this makes a lot of sense… we’ve seen Kobe and LeBron receive similar treatment and return earlier than expected," Buha said on his podacst.

He also pointed to a personal angle: Doncic hasn’t seen his daughters in four months, making the trip emotionally significant as well.

Trouble Brewing

Still, the Lakers’ on-court reality is far from ideal. With constant lineup shuffles and little chemistry, the team looks vulnerable at the worst possible time.

Currently sitting third in the Western Conference, they could be headed for a playoff clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves, a team that dismantled them 4-1 last postseason behind Anthony Edwards.

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